Redox OS has released version 0.9.0, introducing new features, performance enhancements, and bug fixes. Redox OS is a micro-kernel-based operating system written in Rust and follows the core principles of Linux and BSD.

Redox 0.9.0 featured image

Key Improvements in Redox OS 0.9.0

Performance and Stability Enhancements

  • Process and Thread Lifecycle Improvements: Enhanced lifecycle management and signaling, funded by NLnet, boost overall performance and stability.
  • System Call and Context Switching: Faster system calls and context switching optimizes system performance.
  • Memory Management: Upgrades include a new, faster p2buddy memory allocator and better virtual/physical memory handling.
  • Filesystem and ABI Enhancements: Improved filesystem performance and progress towards a stable ABI for better system reliability.

Expanded Compatibility and Portability

  • COSMIC Desktop Integration: Redox now includes COSMIC Files, Editor, and Terminal, enhancing the user experience.
  • Portability of Linux/BSD Programs: Major improvements make it easier to run Linux and BSD software on Redox.
  • Unix Path Format: Replaced the URI format with the Unix path format, increasing compatibility with POSIX/Linux libraries.

Hardware and Software Support

  • Enhanced Bootloader and Driver Support: Improved bootloader compatibility and better PCI/PCIe driver stability.
  • ARM64 Support: Progress on ARM64 support, including initial compatibility with Raspberry Pi 3B+.
  • VirtIO Drivers: New VirtIO drivers enhance performance in virtual environments.

Notable Software Ports

  • Simple HTTP Server: The first HTTP web server ported to Redox, along with support for Apache HTTP Server, RustPython, GNU Nano, and Helix editors.
  • Rust Program Porting: Focused efforts on porting Rust applications, with many now running on Redox with minimal modification.

Build System and Documentation Updates

  • Build System Improvements: Enhancements simplify developer workflows and improve the build process for greater efficiency.
  • Expanded Documentation: New developer resources, including FAQs and guides, have been added to support porting efforts and community contributions.

For a complete list of changes and improvements in Redox OS 0.9.0 release, see the official release announcement in the projects blog.

Getting Redox OS 0.9.0

Redox OS 0.9.0 is available for free download from the Redox file server.

Download Redox 0.9.0